The diocesan secretary to the diocese of Coventry is soon to start his new post as the provincial secretary of the church in Wales.

Archbishop of Wales, Dr Barry Morgan, has announced that Canon Simon Lloyd will take on the new role, which is the most senior lay position in the church in Wales.

Born in Cardiff, Simon lived there until his family moved to North Staffordshire. At Sheffield University, he met his wife, Faye, who was born and brought up in the South Wales valleys where her parents still live. They have two adult children. In addition to his link with South Wales, Simon has family connections in the country and, since childhood, has regularly visited there.

Simon said: “After ten happy years serving the diocese of Coventry, I sense that God is calling me back to my roots in Wales to serve the church there. I am excited by the new challenges and opportunities that my new role will bring, but I’m going to miss the many friends and colleagues that I have made in Coventry and Warwickshire.”

Archbishop Barry said: “Simon will bring his vast experience and expertise to the post of provincial secretary. Born and brought up in Wales until the age of nine, he is returning home and we welcome him here.”

In response to the announcement, the bishop of Coventry said: “Simon has served the diocese of Coventry with enormous energy, skill and wisdom for the last decade. He has been a superb colleague and I, together with so many in the diocese, will miss him greatly.”

Canon Ian Francis, chair of the Coventry Diocesan Board of Finance, said: “It has been a privilege to have worked with Simon throughout his tenure as our diocesan secretary. He will be sorely missed, but his deep Christian faith will drive him forward to the next stage in his life. I wish him well as he follows the calling to his new role.”

Simon will take up his new appointment as provincial secretary on May 1 2016.